Bukit Lawang is a small village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, Indonesia, renowned as one of the world’s premier gateways for observing wild Sumatran orangutan. Nestled along the banks of the Bohorok River in Langkat Regency, it sits about 80 km northwest of Medan and at elevations ranging from 100 to 700 m above sea level
Orangutan Rehabilitation centre
Originally established in 1973 as a rehabilitation and release center for orphaned and displaced Sumatran orangutans, Bukit Lawang’s Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre has played a pivotal role in conserving this critically endangered species. Visitors may witness daily feeding sessions—an educational opportunity that also supports ongoing rescue and rewilding efforts
How To Get To Bukit Lawang
Getting to Bukit Lawang is part of the adventure! This riverside village is located on the outskirts of Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, and although remote, is very easy to reach with a little planning. Here are your main options: Step 1: Fly to Medan Nearest airport: Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), Medan. Direct flights are available from Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other regional centres. Step 2: Travelling from Medan to Bukit Lawang (Approximately 3-5 hours) 1. Private Car (Most Comfortable) Duration: 3-4 hours. Cost: Around IDR 600,000-800,000 per car. Ideal if you are travelling in a group or want a hassle-free trip straight to your lodge. 2. Tourist Minivan (Shared Transport) Duration: 4-5 hours. Cost: IDR 150,000-200,000 per person. Can be arranged through most lodges or tour operators in Medan or Bukit Lawang. 3. Public Bus (Budget Friendly, Adventure) Step 1: Take ALS bus from Medan Airport to Binjai (about 2 hours, IDR 50,000) Step 2: From Binjai, take a local minibus transport to Bukit Lawang (approximately 2-3 hours, IDR 20,000-30,000).
Notes: Buses can be crowded, bumpy and unpredictable-but it’s a great way to meet the locals
Bukit Lawang is known as a quiet and peaceful place, perfect for travellers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and be one with nature. Located on the banks of the Bahorok River and surrounded by the tropical rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park, the atmosphere is very natural-accompanied by the sound of the gurgling river, chirping birds, and sometimes the screams of siamangs in the distance2.
Many of the lodges there are eco-friendly, Wi-Fi-free, with direct views of the forest or river. This makes Bukit Lawang ideal for digital detox, meditation, or simply reading a book while enjoying the fresh air.
Although it’s quiet, it’s not boring. You can still go trekking, tubing, or just chat with the friendly locals. So, if you’re looking for tranquillity combined with light adventure, Bukit Lawang could be the perfect place.
Jungle Trekking and Orangutan
Jungle trekking in Bukit Lawang is a unique adventure that takes you into Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the last strongholds of the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan. It’s not just a jungle walk-it’s a guided journey through dense tropical rainforest, alive with the sounds of gibbons, the hiss of hornbills above, and the thrill of seeing orangutans swaying freely in the canopy.Here’s what makes it unforgettable: What You’ll ExperienceWildlife encounters: Orangutans, Thomas’s leaf monkeys, macaques, hornbills, and even giant flowers like the Rafflesia.Guided exploration: All treks are led by certified local guides who know the forest well and follow strict conservation rules.Comprehensive nature: Towering trees, jungle rivers and hidden waterfalls create a cinematic backdrop for your trek. Trekking OptionsA half-day or full-day trek: Suitable for beginners or those short on time.2-7 day expedition: Includes camping in the jungle
Is Many tourist In Bukit Lawang ??
Bukit Lawang is quite popular with tourists, both domestic and international-especially for those who want to see Sumatran orangutans in their natural habitat. However, the number of tourists there is not as big as mainstream destinations such as Bali or Yogyakarta, so the atmosphere still feels natural and less crowded.
Some highlights:
High Season: Usually between May to September and during the year-end holidays. During this period, you will see more tourists, especially from Europe.
Low Season: Outside of these months, the atmosphere is quieter, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and a more intimate experience with nature.
Group Size: Most visitors come in small groups or solo travellers, not large groups, so the atmosphere remains friendly and quiet.
Managed Ecotourism: Many local operators apply a limited trekking system per day to maintain a balance between tourism and conservation.
So while Bukit Lawang can get quite crowded at times, it still maintains a peaceful and natural feel. If you want a quieter experience, I can help you choose the best time to visit or recommend accommodation away from the crowds.
